Rotorua activities to keep young minds buzzing during school holidays

The Virtually on Track scavenger hunts are a way to discover some of the local natural gems. Photo / Supplied

From dressing up in favourite colours for a Rainbow Dance Party to learning about dog safety, there is plenty to keep young minds buzzing these school holidays.

One school holiday offering is Play Space - a free activity which allows children to invent, design, build, climb and explore with large blocks, ramps and balls.

It will be at Te Rūnanga Tea House from Mondayto Friday this week from 10am to 2pm.

Rotorua Museum events and engagement co-ordinator Tori Williams said the Play Space blocks had had a few outings since the museum first got them in 2015.

"Similar to Lego, kids' imaginations lead the way; we have had row boats, castle, ball-runs and much more.

"We expect people to come back several times, as each time kids create something new."

For the more outdoorsy child, the Virtually on Track scavenger hunts are back, encouraging children to rediscover local hidden gems.

Solve clues, take photos and answer questions in local recreational areas, and go in the draw for a range of prizes.

Sport Bay of Plenty's recreation team leader Sonia Lynds said the scavenger hunts were an engaging way to explore parks across the region.

"There's more than six unique scavenger hunts available, and they're always a really fun activity for the whole family and a chance to rediscover some hidden natural gems in the area, such as Centennial Park Tree Trust and Puarenga Stream.

"To give them a go, all you need to do is download the maps and instructions from the Virtually on Track website."

Entries for the Term 3 holiday scavenger hunts close on October 14. Visit virtuallyontrack.co.nz for details.

Rotorua Library's scheduled activities start on Mondayand include a STEAM Mystery Bag Challenge, Rainbow Dance Party, making your own instrument from recycled materials and learning about animal welfare with Geoff Rudsdale from Rotorua SPCA.

There is also a new Lego challenge - Lego Towns - being held in the Makerspace.

The Great Te Aka Mauri Scavenger Hunt will again run throughout the holidays with new questions and challenges.

These holidays will be the first time it is available in te reo Māori and English.

If you want to maintain an educational edge, Animates and the Kids Safe with Dogs Charitable Trust are offering free educational sessions teaching children dog safety and the correct way to interact with dogs.

Sessions are on twice a day on October 4 and 11 at 11am and 2pm.

Animates national manager Jacqui Baigent said the sessions would help children feel more comfortable and confident in unfamiliar situations. Children who complete the workshop will take home a free activity book and certificate.

The police and New Zealand Transport Agency are asking everybody travelling these school holidays to plan ahead, take regular breaks, and stay safe on the roads.